On-the-Job Training for Energy Efficiency and Clean Technology Program

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) administers the On-the-Job Training for Energy Efficiency and Clean Technology program (PON 3982) to support workforce development aligned with the state’s clean energy and climate goals. NYSERDA, a public authority of New York State, works in collaboration with the New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) to ensure program delivery, employer eligibility review, and workforce alignment. The program is designed to strengthen the clean energy labor pipeline by incentivizing employers to hire and train new workers in energy efficiency and clean technology roles across the state. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to provide wage subsidies and related financial incentives to eligible employers to offset the cost and risk associated with hiring and training new employees. The program specifically targets early-career workers and aims to address defined skill gaps through structured, employer-led training plans. In addition to wage reimbursement, the program offers milestone-based payments tied to employee retention and performance over a twelve-month training period, as well as additional compensation for employees who obtain industry-recognized certifications. Funding is structured on a per-hire reimbursement basis, with maximum funding levels differentiated by worker category. Employers may receive up to 11000 per hire for workers from disadvantaged communities or priority populations and up to 8500 per hire for other eligible workers. Payments are distributed at specific milestones, including at two, four, six, and twelve months of continuous employment, with an additional certification incentive available upon completion of eligible credentials. Employers must document full-time employment, defined as an average of at least 30 hours per week, and maintain compliance with all reporting and documentation requirements to receive reimbursement. Eligibility is limited to employers operating within energy efficiency or clean technology sectors in New York State. These employers must have a physical business presence in the state, meet minimum staffing requirements, and demonstrate the capacity to provide structured on-the-job training aligned with clean energy technologies. Eligible workers must be new hires residing and working in New York State, earning wages within a specified range, and engaged in qualifying technical roles. The program prioritizes individuals from disadvantaged communities and priority populations, and it excludes senior-level or highly experienced hires as well as existing employees, with limited exceptions for participants transitioning from other NYSERDA workforce programs. The application process consists of a two-step submission model. First, employers must complete an Employer Application to establish eligibility and register for participation in the program. This application is reviewed by NYSERDA and NYSDOL, including a due diligence process evaluating compliance with labor laws, tax obligations, and operational standing. Once approved, employers may submit individual New Hire Applications for each employee they intend to support through the program. Each application must include a detailed twelve-month training plan, employment documentation, and verification of worker eligibility, including residency and priority population status where applicable. Applications are accepted on a continuous basis until program funds are exhausted or the program is modified or suspended. Funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to availability and compliance with program requirements. Contracts are issued upon approval of individual new hire applications, and employers must adhere to strict reporting, documentation, and retention requirements throughout the training period. NYSERDA anticipates making multiple awards and expects to notify applicants of decisions within approximately four weeks of submission. Program oversight includes monitoring of training implementation, retention rates, and compliance with contractual obligations. Employers must maintain detailed records of training activities and employment status and may be subject to audits or site visits. The program also includes provisions for termination or suspension of participation in cases of non-compliance or insufficient performance. For inquiries, applicants may contact program representatives via email or phone, and all official materials, including the program summary and application forms, are available through NYSERDA’s online portal.

Ensure training plans clearly address clean energy skill gaps and align with eligible technologies; prioritize hires from disadvantaged communities; maintain complete documentation for milestone payments